Play Space

Philadelphia, PA

Play Space was a 2 year initiative that brought awareness to the critical role of play in childhood development, advocating for more thoughtful, imaginative, and informed play-centered environments. Through the facilitation of a series of programs, Play Space rallied designers, educators, academics, city officials, and other thought leaders around this issue in an unprecedented, coordinated effort that now influences the way Philadelphia invests in child-centered public space.

As the Program Manager for the Community Design Collaborative, Hinge Founder, Alexa Bosse, developed and directed this initiative and facilitated the series of programs that included: an exhibition and discussion of 40 inspirational play-focused projects; a series of community build projects focused on the importance of physically active play and childhood health; a day-long charrette focused on developing replicable, nature-based, play environments for in-home childcare facilities; an international design competition with 40 entries from 6 countries, to design innovative outdoor play spaces for a Philadelphia library, recreation center, and school yard; a series of 7 lecture and panel events centered around the various benefits of play and models for improving the quality of play spaces for children worldwide; a final exhibition held at Philadelphia City hall showcasing the results of the initiative and soliciting support. Play Space rallied designers, educators, academics, city officials, and other thought leaders around this issue in an unprecedented, coordinated effort that now is directly influencing the way Philadelphia invests in child-centered public space through it's 500 Million dollar Rebuild program.